Protector’s exhibit:
Prints on loan by Ron Blackmore with accompanying photographs by Wells Horton in tribute to Olaus and Mardy Murie.
Protectors is a portfolio of 12 3-color 11″ x 17″ screen prints depicting scientists and organizers from across the USA who are working to protect biodiversity, alongside images of the extant species they protect, and the extinct species that we are too late to save. Images are created by the members of the Justseeds Artists’ Cooperative in collaboration with the Center for Biological Diversity and accompanied by informational cards and an 80-page booklet featuring interviews with the subjects.
Learn More about Wells Horton’s Photography:
To accompany the "Protector's" exhibit, Sherburne photographer, Wells Horton, photos focus on the conservation work of Olaus (1889 - 1963) and Mardy Murie (1902 - 2003).
-Olaus and Mardy Murie were pivotal figures in the American conservation movement, and their efforts had significant impacts on animal species such as Elk, Caribou, and others through their advocacy for wilderness preservation and sound ecological principles. Their key contributions:
The importance of predator-prey relationships and the role of predators in maintaining healthy ecosystems. This challenged prevailing views at the time and contributed to more informed wildlife management practices.
The establishment of protected wilderness areas, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and Grand Teton National Park. By safeguarding these habitats, they provided crucial protection for a wide range of animal species. Mardy assisted in the establishment of several Alaskan National Parks. Their advocacy contributed to protecting parts of several National Parks such as Olympic National Park and Glacier National Park.
Olaus was considered the authority on Elk and became known as Mr. Elk. His efforts were instrumental in the growth of the Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole. The US government was not willing to spend the money to expand the Elk Refuge, but by working with a philanthropist Olaus was the driving force in expanding the Refuge.
Their work in Alaska, particularly with Caribou, helped to protect the herd's habitat
In 1959, Olaus earned the Audubon Medal for his continued work protecting America’s beautiful places. Mardy earned the Audubon Medal (1980), the John Muir Award (1983), and the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1998).